Tottenham has just gained a micropub.
And luckily, it serves more than half-pints.
Set on the high road next to the Tottenham High Cross pillar, its diminutive size is down to its somewhat unusual housing: a 1920s public toilet.
After lying abandoned for years, the team have polished up the fairytale, mock Tudor facade, illuminated the Ladies & Gentlemen signs once more, and opened their doors as a cosy, unexpected little boozer. Inside, you’ll find the original tiling scrubbed up, a new wooden floor put down, and a smattering of candlelit tables and chairs, while postcards of old Tottenham adorn the walls and flowers in old jars sit in the windows.
On the ten taps crammed onto the corner bar, they’ve got a number of local breweries like Redemption, Beavertown and Bohem; alongside a well-curated collection of spirits, like the Nikka From The Barrel whisky and Bobby’s Schiedam gin; and a nice slick of wines to boot. The kitchen, meanwhile – packed into the old cleaner’s cupboard – sends out a glorious array of pub grub that changes daily.
You’ll find the menu scrawled onto a blackboard, but there’s generally a bake, a stew and a salad on offer (with veggie, vegan and gluten free options), plus bar snacks (Scotch eggs, sausage rolls) and what’s generally considered to be the best Sunday roast in the area (beef, lamb, pork, chicken and nut).
Essentially, it’s the definition of a local gem. And once you’ve been in…
You’ll be busting to go again.
NOTE: The High Cross is open Tues-Sun (Tues-Thurs 4-11pm; Fri 4-11.30pm; Sat 12-11.30pm and Sun 12-10.30pm), with roasts served on Sundays 1.30-6.30pm. You can book a table on 020 8292 8115, or find out more HERE.
The High Cross | 350 High Road, N17 9HT
Partial to a tipple? Peruse the Best Bars in London